What Are Signs That a Computer Has Been Hacked?

Any unexpected activity that originates from a user's computer account, including email and access to specific websites, or change to the operation of the computer itself is typically a sign that the system has been hacked. Computer hacking is a serious issue that continues to grow.

Hacking will change the functioning and perhaps contents of a computer. There are a number of common signs that a computer has been hacked.

Fake antivirus messages - these take the user to a site asking for credit card information with a bogus report indicating multiple virus infections

Emails (spam) sent from an account without the user's knowledge

New programs on the computer

Passwords have changed

Unexplained increase in network activity (as the hacker accesses the system remotely)

Internet searches that are unexpectedly redirected

Persistent pop-up windows

Security programs such as antivirus or anti-malware programs are disabled or uninstalled and can't be rebooted

Mouse moves on its own to select programs or options

Browser has been changed

The best solution to a hacking episode, if it is available and depending on the operating system, is to restore the computer to a point where it was known to be in good operating condition. A full restore is typically the only way to ensure the problems don't linger.